The Vatican on Tuesday announced the cancellation of two weekend events for Pope Francis as the 88-year-old continues receiving hospital treatment for bronchitis.
On Monday, the Holy See indicated that the pontiff, who was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Friday, would remain hospitalised longer than initially expected due to a “complex” clinical condition.
“Due to the Holy Father’s health conditions, the Jubilee audience scheduled for Saturday, February 22, is cancelled,” the Vatican stated, adding that a senior clergyman has been assigned to lead Sunday morning Mass in the pope’s place.
The statement did not mention the Angelus prayer, which Pope Francis usually delivers at midday (1100 GMT) on Sundays but missed last weekend.
The pope, who has led the Catholic Church since 2013, was hospitalised after struggling for days to read his texts in public. This is the latest in a series of health issues for the Argentine Jesuit, who has undergone hernia and colon surgeries since 2021 and relies on a wheelchair due to knee pain.
On Monday, the Vatican confirmed that tests had identified a “polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract,” requiring adjustments to his treatment.
“All tests conducted so far indicate a complex clinical picture requiring continued hospitalisation,” the statement read.
In an evening update, the Vatican reported no changes in the pope’s condition. “The Holy Father remains without fever and is continuing the prescribed treatment,” it said.
The statement also noted that Pope Francis had “received the Eucharist” on Monday morning and spent time working and reading texts.
“Pope Francis is deeply moved by the many messages of affection and support he continues to receive,” it added.
– Pilgrims Pray –
Pilgrims and tourists gathered in Saint Peter’s Square on Tuesday morning, many expressing prayers for the pope’s recovery.
“I hope he gets better soon. I trust in the hospital’s doctors and believe they are doing their best,” said Birgit Jungreuthmayer, a 48-year-old tourist from Austria.
AFP
